How to prepare your home for winter weather

A little preparation before cold weather arrives can make winter days less stressful. Start with the tasks that affect safety and access, then work through the rest as time allows. If a job involves a ladder, electrical equipment or a heating system, consider asking a qualified professional for help.

Service heating equipment and check detectors

Arrange for your furnace or other heating system to be inspected before you depend on it every day. Check the filter and replace it as directed for your equipment. If you use a fireplace or wood stove, have the chimney or flue inspected too. [0, 2]

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and check their batteries. Review the instructions for each detector so you know how to test it and when it needs attention. Make sure everyone in the household knows what to do if an alarm sounds. [0, 2]

Seal drafts and improve insulation

Walk through your home and check around doors and windows for drafts. Caulk and weather-stripping can help seal gaps; draft stoppers and plastic window covers are other options. These steps can help retain heat. [0]

Consider whether the attic or walls need more insulation. For a larger project, a qualified professional can help you assess the space and discuss options. If you rent, ask your landlord about repairs or improvements before making changes. [0]

Protect pipes, outdoor taps, gutters and downspouts

Before freezing weather, disconnect and store garden hoses. Shut off the water supply to outdoor taps where possible, cover exterior spigots and insulate exposed pipes. Locate your main water shutoff valve now, so you are not looking for it during an emergency. [2, 3]

Clear leaves and other debris from gutters and downspouts. This is also a chance to check whether downspouts need attention before winter. Hire help if the work requires climbing or reaching beyond what you can do safely. [2, 3]

Prepare supplies for a winter emergency

Keep at least three days’ worth of water, non-perishable food, medications and other essential supplies on hand; consider keeping more where practical. Store supplies somewhere household members can find and reach them. [0, 1]

Tailor the kit to your household. Think about infants, pets, mobility needs and any equipment you rely on. For questions about medication supplies or equipment that depends on electricity, consult a qualified health professional or the equipment provider.

• Water and food that does not need refrigeration or cooking
• Flashlights and suitable batteries
• Blankets and warm layers
• A phone charger or charged backup battery
• A written list of important contacts
• Supplies for pets and other household members

Check the kit before winter and replace anything your household has used. Put the contact list somewhere easy to find even if phones are unavailable.

Keep walkways clear and snow-removal tools ready

Bring snow-removal tools out before the first storm and check that they are ready to use. Make a plan to clear the paths your household uses most, including the route to the front door and any essential exits. Clearing walkways can help reduce fall risks. [4]

Decide ahead of time who will handle snow removal. If clearing snow is difficult for anyone in the household, ask a neighbor, family member or service provider about help before it is needed. Keep suitable footwear and any mobility aids accessible near the door.

Make a plan for staying warm during a power outage

Choose an accessible place to keep blankets, hats and warm layers. Discuss where your household could go if staying home is no longer practical, and how you would get there. Check in advance whether a friend or relative could help with transportation or provide a place to stay. [0, 1]

If you plan to use supplemental heat, review the equipment’s safety instructions before an outage. Never use a generator inside a home, garage or other enclosed space, and do not use a gas stove to heat your home. Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working. [0]

Share the plan with everyone in your household and arrange to check on relatives or neighbors who may need help. Revisit the plan when someone’s needs or circumstances change.